Drusen and the misleading optic disc

Optic disc drusen are acellular calcified deposits occurring in small optic discs. They have a prevalence of up to approximately 2% and are bilateral in 75% of cases. Their size and fundosc pic visibility increase with age, and they are commonly responsible for the misdiagnosis of papilloedema by the unwary. Although largely asymptomatic, they can be associated with vascular problems affecting the optic nerve. Ocular ultrasonography is the most sensitive method for their detection. This article highlights their commonly encountered clinical presentations and the practical aspects of diagnosis and management.